How To Add Some Happy to Your Day

The last few weeks have been an emotional roller coaster. Over the last several months, I have been facing “reality” in many areas of my life.

MS struggles seem to have increased with wobbly days, brain fog and a wide range of mood swings. I have faced addiction relapse issues and am again fighting some inner gremlins. The lack of sun in Jersey hasn’t helped much either. I know it is January and winter is here BUT a few days of bright sunshine would definitely help!

Okay, so I am rambling but it brings me to a list of things YOU can do to give yourself a boost. Let’s get those HAPPY endorphins moving.

1. Go for a walk. If you feel like chatting, ask a coworker, friend, or family member to join you! I know it is a little chilly outside for this so why not head to the mall. My favorite is walking up and down the aisles of Walmart just to get out!

2. Be kind. Pick a day and do one to five random acts of kindness. They can range from feeding someone’s parking meter or complimenting a coworker. How about leaving a piece of chocolate for someone? Or even a simple thank you when they hold the door for you. It can be just what another person needs to see to turn their day around—and how you can start a karmic shift!

3. Listen to your favorite song. Music can decrease anxiety experienced by patients before surgery, according to a study in the journal, Anesthesia & Analgesia. If tunes can calm pre-op jitters, surely they can help you find your zen place.

4. Count your blessings.People with a more grateful outlook on life tend to exhibit a heightened state of wellbeing, according to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Researchers concluded “gratitude is linked with positive emotions including contentment, happiness, and hope.” At some point during the day, make a simple list of five or ten things you are grateful for in your life.

5. Take a breath. Take one minute today and focus on your breath with your eyes closed. A full minute. I have to set a timer to make sure I am not rushing through this. You will be amazed at how this can change your outlook.

6. Stroke an animal, like a cat or dog.If you don’t have a pet, go on YouTube and watch a funny animal video. I know I am not the only one who scrolls through those YouTube videos, right?

Life is what you make it – if you focus on the negative, you will get negativity. If you focus on the positive (no matter how small), it will come your way. There are days I struggle to find the good and something to be grateful for. It in on the days I beat myself up the worst, I work hard to find my happy place.

Published by Hope Wissel

I am a wife, a mom or mommy as my daughter prefers to call me, a daughter, blogger and entrepreneur. I am traveling this road called life with its twists and turns, bumps in the road and dead ends. With God's help, I start each day with a positive outlook, seeking his guidance believing that all things are possible. Have a Thirty One-derful day!
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